The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development

Short training courses

Content of Professional Presentation Skills

DAY 1


Preparing the material

  • content structure and aims of the presentation
  • avoid confusing the audience – a key message
  • selection and ordering of material, mind mapping
  • using verbal illustrations to create interest
  • organising your notes so your words are remembered

Delivering the talk

  • standing in front of an audience: the non-verbal signals
  • how to control nerves: some techniques
  • overcoming self-doubt: a positive attitude

Making an impact on the audience


  • repetition of the key message
  • a clear opening and a memorable close

Visual aids, when to use them


Practical exercises

During the day, you will give a number of short presentations. These will be recorded together with feedback from tutors and those in the audience for you to analyse before preparing for Day 2.

DAY 2

Keeping the audience engaged  

  • effective use of your voice: articulation and emphasis
  • the place of humour/anecdotal material

The art of persuasion, getting your point across

  • structuring a persuasive case and selling the benefits

Involving the audience

  • handling awkward questions and awkward questioners

Final exercise

  • a work-related presentation with questions and answers

Action planning